CEE 1160 Modern Structures

Introduction to structural engineering in the 21st century—the challenges structural engineers face and the innovative approaches they are using to address them. Using case studies of famous structures, students learn to identify different structural forms and understand how various forms carry load—using principles of statics, mechanics, and material behavior. The historical, economic, social, and political context for each structure is discussed. Case studies of failures are used to explain how structures fail in earthquakes and other extreme events, and students are introduced to analytical and experimental approaches (shake table and wind tunnel testing) to quantifying loads on structures subjected to extreme events. Types of structures considered include skyscrapers, bridges, aircraft, and underground structures.